If you’ve noticed cracks in your driveway, you might be wondering whether sealcoating can help restore its appearance and durability. Sealcoating and crack filling are essential steps in maintaining asphalt driveways, but they serve different purposes. In this blog, we’ll discuss whether you can sealcoat a cracked driveway and the best practices for handling cracks before applying a sealcoat.

Understanding Sealcoating and Crack Filling

Before diving into the process, let’s clarify the difference between sealcoating and crack filling:

• Sealcoating: This is a protective layer applied to asphalt surfaces to shield them from UV rays, moisture, and chemicals. It extends the life of the pavement and enhances its appearance.
• Crack Filling: This process involves filling in cracks with a specialized material to prevent water infiltration, which can lead to further damage like potholes and pavement deterioration.

Can You Sealcoat a Cracked Driveway?

The short answer is yes, but with proper preparation. Simply applying a sealcoat over cracks will not fix the underlying issues. Instead, the cracks must be filled and repaired first to ensure a smooth and long-lasting surface.

Steps to Prepare Your Driveway for Sealcoating

1. Clean the Driveway
   Remove dirt, debris, and any loose asphalt from the cracks using a blower or pressure washer.

2. Fill the Cracks

   • Use a high-quality crack filler to seal any gaps.
   • For small cracks (less than ¼ inch wide), a liquid crack filler works well.
   • Larger cracks may require a patching compound or hot rubberized crack filler.

3. Allow Proper Drying Time
   Crack fillers need time to cure before sealcoating is applied. Depending on the material used, this can take a few hours to a day.

4. Apply the Sealcoat
   Once the cracks are properly filled and dried, a high-quality sealcoat can be applied. This will create a uniform, black finish and provide long-term protection.

Why Sealcoating and Crack Filling Matter

Ignoring cracks in your driveway can lead to significant damage over time. Water can seep into the cracks, causing the pavement to weaken and eventually form potholes. Sealcoating and crack filling work together to maintain the integrity of your asphalt and extend its lifespan.

Final Thoughts

If your driveway has cracks, don’t skip the crack filling process before sealcoating. Proper preparation ensures a smooth, durable surface that will look great and last for years. If you’re unsure about the process, consider hiring professionals who specialize in sealcoating and crack filling for the best results.